City of Angels (1998)

Some critics complained that City of Angels could never compare to Wim Wenders's exquisite German film Wings of Desire, which served as the later film's primary inspiration. The better argument to make is that any such comparisons are beside the point, because Wings of Desire was a much more deeply poetic, artfully contemplative film, whereas City of Angels is an enchanting product of mainstream Hollywood. Meg Ryan stars as Dr. Maggie Rice, a heart surgeon who is grieving over a lost patient when an angel named Seth (Nicolas Cage) appears to comfort her. She can see him despite the "rule" that angels are invisible, and Seth's love for Maggie forces him to choose between angelic immortality and a normal human existence on earth with her. Featuring heavenly roles for TV veterans Andre Braugher and Dennis Franz, the film liberally borrows imagery from Wings of Desire, but it also creates its own charming identity. Cage and Ryan give fine performances as lovers convinced they are soul mates, and although the plot relies on a last-minute twist that doesn't quite work, this earnest love story struck a chord with audiences and proved to be one of the surprise hits of 1998. The Special Edition widescreen DVD includes audio commentary by Nicolas Cage, producer Charles Roven, and director Brad Silberling in addition to deleted scenes, a behind-the-scenes documentary, a featurette about the film's special effects, and the theatrical trailer. --Jeff Shannon Amazon.com

Taking the plunge

CITY OF ANGELS starring Meg Ryan and Nicholas Cage is a moving film. Cage plays one of God's messenger's, Seth, who happens to fall in love with Maggie Rice, a heart surgeon, who is adamant into believing that Seth is actually an angel. But as the film proceeds, their relationship blossoms into a sweep you off your feet type of romance that is seldom seen in films these days, but lives are altered in the process.

The highlight of the film is Cage's character Seth. Throughout the film he carries an expressionless but gentle and friendly façade with those he meet, especially with Maggie as well as with his angel cohort, Cassiel (Andre Braugher) and hospital patient, Nathaniel Messinger (Dennis Franz); Franz and Cage's dive into the ocean and catch a wave scene is quite a metaphor to the film as well as the concluding scene, which only shows how the simple things in life are taken for granted.

This may eventually become a classic, or if it is not already, end up on the American Film Institute's top films. The production, the screenplay, and the cinematography are exceptional. And for those who enjoy a little romance and tinge of metaphysics in a film, CITY OF ANGELS is not at all too deep to understand but enlightening. The theme of this film is quite similar to films, such as MEET JOE BLACK and WHAT DREAMS MAY COME, which have the underlining meaning involving immortality.
June 20, 2008

One of my favourite movies @}->---

This is a definate chick flick but it's a good one. I love the chemistry between Meg Ryan and Nicholas Cage in here. She plays a Dr and he's an Angel who sees her in the hospital where she works. She can see him but he doesn't let her know his secret. The only way their relationship can grow is if he leaves his 'life' as an angel. He can leave the life of no death, pain and sadness, and trade it for a normal life that humans experience.
They both act really well in this and it was good to see Meg in a more serious role. I cannot go into more depth without giving you the ending, but I have to stress that this is such a beautiful movie (ok a little depressing in parts) but overall so good. You will most probably need tissues; it never fails to make me cry. It's such a beautiful romantic story and an under-rated movie for sure. I love it and it's one of my all time favourites.
PS I love Megs curls in this. June 7, 2008

Heartfelt

Excellent story with exceptional acting. If you enjoy Nicolas Cage this role is quite different for him. A real romantic story.Meg Ryan outperforms anyone in this female role. June 3, 2008

City of Angels (one of my all time favorites!)

I LOVE this movie! The emotion, the songs, the story... I can watch it over and over. A must see! May 28, 2008

Love spreads its wings.

City of Angels isn't a bad movie like everyone said it was but it's not perfect either. This movie has flaws but the chemistry between Nicolas Cage and Meg Ryan is sensual and extremely powerful. The supporting cast is electric as well, the story is a bit weepy which makes City of Angels a bit of a letdown. Great soundtrack so with that in mind, give this tearjerker a try. March 30, 2008

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